John A. Buehrens - Podcast Details

Shows

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Uses and Abuses of Scripture"The Uses and Abuses of Scripture" Sunday, October 8, 10:50 am, 2023 On a Sunday when we mark Indigenous Peoples Day, we will enjoy music from a group of Native Hawai’ian musicians. Rev. Buehrens reflect on how scripture was abused in the spread of settler colonialism, even as he invites people, in his Monday evening adult RE course on the Hebrew Bible, to learn about how the scriptures can be understood and used to counter oppression and begin the process of healing. Rev. John Buehrens; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Dennis Adams, Worship Associate; Lo...2023-10-081h 07

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Uses and Abuses of Scripture"The Uses and Abuses of Scripture" Sunday, October 8, 10:50 am, 2023 On a Sunday when we mark Indigenous Peoples Day, we will enjoy music from a group of Native Hawai’ian musicians. Rev. Buehrens reflect on how scripture was abused in the spread of settler colonialism, even as he invites people, in his Monday evening adult RE course on the Hebrew Bible, to learn about how the scriptures can be understood and used to counter oppression and begin the process of healing. Rev. John Buehrens; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Dennis Adams, Worship As...2023-10-0820 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWhose Land Is This?“Whose Land Is This?” Sunday, October 9, 10:50 am, Worship Service Livestream Woody Guthrie sang, “This land is your land, this land is my land, from California to the Gulf Stream waters.” Yet Indigenous Peoples’ Day, observed on the second Monday of October (but not as a holiday), suggests that we acknowledge the unceded rights of this continent’s first peoples. Doing so might even shed light on some of our society’s deepest problems. John Buehrens is both our past Senior Minister and a former President of the UUA. He will also reflect on his recent visit to Alaska, whe...2022-10-091h 13

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWhose Land Is This?“Whose Land Is This?” Sunday, October 9, 10:50 am, Worship Service Livestream Woody Guthrie sang, “This land is your land, this land is my land, from California to the Gulf Stream waters.” Yet Indigenous Peoples’ Day, observed on the second Monday of October (but not as a holiday), suggests that we acknowledge the unceded rights of this continent’s first peoples. Doing so might even shed light on some of our society’s deepest problems. John Buehrens is both our past Senior Minister and a former President of the UUA. He will also reflect on his recent visit to Alaska, whe...2022-10-0925 min

First Unitarian Universalist Church of AustinOn Trusting the ProcessRev. John Buehrens' sermon delivered on August 14, 2022. Former UUA President John Buehrens is serving us as Consulting Minister for Leadership Transitions. His sermon will be dedicated to the late Prof. Charles Harshorne, the distinguished process philosopher who was a member of our congregation.2022-08-1539 min

Meditations For The MetroJune 7, 2022Today’s meditation comes from The Book Of Deuteronomy in The Old Testament and from the writings of John A. Buehrens, with music by Stephen Keech.2022-06-0705 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoRight Belief or Right Living"Right Belief or Right Living" Sunday, January 2, 2022, Worship Service Livestream On Sunday, January 2nd, the Rev. David Usher will be preaching “ right belief or right living“. David was the hula hoop champion Manchester before going on to write one of the greatest books of knock knock jokes and it’s probably most famous for his art exhibition at the Guggenheim of cotton candy sculptures. We hope you’ll join us for this wonderful Sunday with the Reverend David Usher. Rev. Dr. David Usher, Guest Minister; Rev. Dr. John A. Buehrens; Reiko Oda Lane, Organist; Elliott Etzkorn...2022-01-021h 16

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoRight Belief or Right Living"Right Belief or Right Living" Sunday, January 2, 2022, Worship Service Livestream On Sunday, January 2nd, the Rev. David Usher will be preaching “ right belief or right living“. David was the hula hoop champion Manchester before going on to write one of the greatest books of knock knock jokes and it’s probably most famous for his art exhibition at the Guggenheim of cotton candy sculptures. We hope you’ll join us for this wonderful Sunday with the Reverend David Usher. Rev. Dr. David Usher, Guest Minister; Rev. Dr. John A. Buehrens; Reiko Oda Lane, Organist; Elliott Etzkorn...2022-01-0225 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San Francisco"Higher Love: Installation Service""Higher Love: Installation Service" (October 3, 2021) Worship Service "The Installation Service of Senior Minister Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern" This is a sermon (Higher Love) about where this ministry together takes us and some of what we learn along the way. Our preacher, the Rev. Elizabeth Lerner Maclay, is the Senior Minister of the First Unitarian Church of Providence, RI. Rev. Maclay has been in Providence since 2017 in a congregation that first gathered in 1720! Rev. Maclay played a central role while serving in Maryland for the successful passage of that state's Marriage Equality legislation, as well as...2021-10-041h 54

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San Francisco"Higher Love: Installation Service""Higher Love: Installation Service" (October 3, 2021) Worship Service "The Installation Service of Senior Minister Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern" This is a sermon (Higher Love) about where this ministry together takes us and some of what we learn along the way. Our preacher, the Rev. Elizabeth Lerner Maclay, is the Senior Minister of the First Unitarian Church of Providence, RI. Rev. Maclay has been in Providence since 2017 in a congregation that first gathered in 1720! Rev. Maclay played a central role while serving in Maryland for the successful passage of that state's Marriage Equality legislation, as well as...2021-10-0420 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoRelinquishment"Relinquishment" (July 11, 2021) Worship Service As many of you know, John was Senior Minister at UUSF from 2014 until his retirement in 2017. He had earlier been President of the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations, 1993-2001, among other posts in religious leadership. He first began pondering relinquishment as he gave up thousands of books before moving the West Coast. He was helped by his witty wife Gwen observing, “I’ve never yet seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul!” Yet some of our most difficult relinquishments are not about things – but about less material attachments. This continues to the very end. Still, w...2021-07-111h 08

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoRelinquishment"Relinquishment" (July 11, 2021) Worship Service As many of you know, John was Senior Minister at UUSF from 2014 until his retirement in 2017. He had earlier been President of the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations, 1993-2001, among other posts in religious leadership. He first began pondering relinquishment as he gave up thousands of books before moving the West Coast. He was helped by his witty wife Gwen observing, “I’ve never yet seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul!” Yet some of our most difficult relinquishments are not about things – but about less material attachments. This continues to the very end. Still, w...2021-07-1132 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoTurning Points"Turning Points" (August 16, 2020) Our history is full of turning points. So are our individual lives. As we live through a time full of both danger and opportunity, let us reflect on some of the great turning points in our national history – such as women winning the right to vote in August, 1920, or same sex couples winning the right to marry just five years ago, – and how they came about. John Buehrens is the past Senior Minister of UUSF, the past President of the Unitarian Universalist Association (1993-2001), a past honorary President of Religions for Peace, and was...2020-08-171h 10

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoTurning Points"Turning Points" (August 16, 2020) Our history is full of turning points. So are our individual lives. As we live through a time full of both danger and opportunity, let us reflect on some of the great turning points in our national history – such as women winning the right to vote in August, 1920, or same sex couples winning the right to marry just five years ago, – and how they came about. John Buehrens is the past Senior Minister of UUSF, the past President of the Unitarian Universalist Association (1993-2001), a past honorary President of Religions for Peace, and was...2020-08-1720 min $Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation\'s Podcast$ Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation's PodcastConflagration: The Prospect of a Second American Civil WarThis sermon was delivered by Rev. Dr. John Buehrens on July 19, 2020. Rev. Buehrens explores how the American Transcendentalists ignited movements for racial, gender and social justice in the 19th century and reflects on their wisdom for our current moment. The podcast includes a reading from "The Limits of Tyrants" by Frederick Douglass. The Rev. John Buehrens was president of the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations from 1993 to 2001. He served congregations in Tennessee, Texas, New York, Massachusetts, and California before retiring in 2017. He is the co-author with Forrest Church of A Chosen Faith: An Introduction to Unitarian Universalism. H...2020-07-1915 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoGifts Great and Small"Gifts Great and Small" (March 15, 2020) This is Pi(e) weekend. The ratio of the radius of our circle of caring and sharing to its circumference, geometrically, is forever roughly 3.14. So just what does this mean for our relatively small, church community in relation to the great surrounding spiritual and social needs of the city and world in which we live? What part of the whole pie of services that UUSF attempts to provide goes to whom? What proportion of those efforts should each of us try to support with our gifts of time and treasure? 2020-03-1624 min

Discover the Best Audio Stories in History, The AmericasConflagration: How the Transcendentalists Sparked the American Struggle for Racial, Gender, and Social Justice by John A. BuehrensPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/380875to listen full audiobooks. Title: Conflagration: How the Transcendentalists Sparked the American Struggle for Racial, Gender, and Social Justice Author: John A. Buehrens Narrator: Jeff Zinn Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 12 hours 27 minutes Release date: January 14, 2020 Genres: The Americas Publisher's Summary: A dramatic retelling of the story of the Transcendentalists, revealing them not as isolated authors but as a community of social activists who shaped progressive American values. Conflagration illuminates the connections between key members of the Transcendentalist circle—including James Freeman Clarke, Elizabeth Peabody, Caroline Healey Dall, Elizabeth Stanton, Thomas Wentworth Higginson, Theodore Parker, an...2020-01-1412h 27

Discover the Best Audio Stories in History, The AmericasConflagration: How the Transcendentalists Sparked the American Struggle for Racial, Gender, and Social Justice by John A. BuehrensPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/380875 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Conflagration: How the Transcendentalists Sparked the American Struggle for Racial, Gender, and Social Justice Author: John A. Buehrens Narrator: Jeff Zinn Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 12 hours 27 minutes Release date: January 14, 2020 Genres: The Americas Publisher's Summary: A dramatic retelling of the story of the Transcendentalists, revealing them not as isolated authors but as a community of social activists who shaped progressive American values. Conflagration illuminates the connections between key members of the Transcendentalist circle—including James Freeman Clarke, Elizabeth Peabody, Caroline Healey Dall, Elizabeth Stanton, Thomas Wentworth Higginson, Theodore Pa...2020-01-1410 min

Enjoy Amazing Full Trial Audiobooks in Biography & Memoir, History & CultureConflagration: How the Transcendentalists Sparked the American Struggle for Racial, Gender, and Social Justice by John A. BuehrensPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/380875 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Conflagration: How the Transcendentalists Sparked the American Struggle for Racial, Gender, and Social Justice Author: John A. Buehrens Narrator: Jeff Zinn Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 12 hours 27 minutes Release date: January 14, 2020 Genres: History & Culture Publisher's Summary: A dramatic retelling of the story of the Transcendentalists, revealing them not as isolated authors but as a community of social activists who shaped progressive American values. Conflagration illuminates the connections between key members of the Transcendentalist circle—including James Freeman Clarke, Elizabeth Peabody, Caroline Healey Dall, Elizabeth Stanton, Thomas Wentworth Higginson, Theodore Pa...2020-01-1410 min

Let Your Imagination Run Wild With Our Captivating Free AudiobookConflagration: How the Transcendentalists Sparked the American Struggle for Racial, Gender, and Social Justice Audiobook by John A. BuehrensListen to this audiobook in full for free onhttps://hotaudiobook.com/freeID: 380875 Title: Conflagration: How the Transcendentalists Sparked the American Struggle for Racial, Gender, and Social Justice Author: John A. Buehrens Narrator: Jeff Zinn Format: Unabridged Length: 12:27:39 Language: English Release date: 01-14-20 Publisher: Beacon Press Genres: Biography & Memoir, Non-Fiction, North America, History & Culture, Philosophy Summary: A dramatic retelling of the story of the Transcendentalists, revealing them not as isolated authors but as a community of social activists who shaped progressive American values. Conflagration illuminates the connections between key members of the Transcendentalist circle—including James Freeman Clarke, Elizabeth Peabody, Ca...2020-01-1412h 27

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWhat Deserves Our Ultimate Trust?What Deserves Our Ultimate Trust? (June 9, 2019) The first challenge to a child’s emotional development, said Erik Erikson, is trust vs. mistrust. James Baldwin said that what he learned in church is “do our first works over.” In a society and time that has come to distrust information, institutions, and almost all else, let’s talk about trust. On a Sunday when Rev. Southern will be in New York for the ordination of our intern minister, Shari Halliday-Quan, our former senior minister steps. The Choir will sing for the last time before summer services begin. Worship will be followed...2019-06-1123 min

Lean Blog Audio#Lean Enterprise Institute Announces New CEOThe Lean Enterprise Institute (a former employer of mine from 2009 to 2011) has announced a new CEO, the third in their history following founder James P. Womack and his successor, John Shook. Their press release: Lean Enterprise Institute Names Eric Buehrens New CEO The start of the release: "The nonprofitÂ Lean Enterprise Institute, a global leader in lean thinking and practice, today announced the appointment ofÂ Eric BuehrensÂ as its new CEO. The appointment took effect October 1, 2017. A proven lean thinker and leader, Buehrens led lean transformations at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, where he served as COO and Interim CEO, and at...2017-10-0305 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoConfessions of A Curious Cleric: Reflections On 45 Years of MinistryConfessions of A Curious Cleric: Reflections On 45 Years of Ministry We each bring our own gifts. Ministry is something we all do. John will confess what he wishes he had done differently. Perhaps to inspire us to stay curious and open to what the future may unfold. The Choir will end with the Forman Benediction by Daniel Pinkham, composed in John’s honor for his last service as UUA President. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister Rev. Gwen Langdoc Buehrens Kathleen Quenneville, welcome an...2017-06-191h 24

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoConfessions of A Curious Cleric: Reflections On 45 Years of MinistryConfessions of A Curious Cleric: Reflections On 45 Years of Ministry We each bring our own gifts. Ministry is something we all do. John will confess what he wishes he had done differently. Perhaps to inspire us to stay curious and open to what the future may unfold. The Choir will end with the Forman Benediction by Daniel Pinkham, composed in John’s honor for his last service as UUA President. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister Rev. Gwen Langdoc Buehrens Kathleen Quenneville, welcome an...2017-06-191h 24

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Curious Case Of This Congregation and Of Schrodinger’s CatThe Curious Case Of This Congregation and Of Schrodinger’s Cat These last three years have been among the happiest and most satisfying of my professional life. Yet UUSF still suffers from some self-defeating understandings of itself. As “Developmental Minister” I will play therapist to try to help you to change the narrative. Worship will include a covenant with Lay Chaplains. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister Susan Anthony, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ Asher Davison, song leader Katrina Walter, flute Adrienne Malley, oboe Jeanni...2017-06-131h 13

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoInquiring Minds Want To Know: A Question Box SermonInquiring Minds Want To Know: A Question Box Sermon Worship Associate Richard Davis and I will pick the 10 best questions for me to answer. Briefly. The Choir will sing Rumi’s “Come, Come, Whoever You Are,” in English, Spanish and Chinese. We will thank the facilitators of Small Group Ministry. The Bell Choir will perform. Bike to Worship Sunday! Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Richard Davis, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ Dr. Mark Sumner, music director Asher Davison, song leader Christopher Rodriguez, welcome ...2017-06-121h 11

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCommunity as Sanctuary . . . and moreCommunity as Sanctuary . . . and more The mission statement of UUSF says that we exist “to be a sanctuary for individual religious growth and learning, to celebrate life and worship in diverse fellowship, to bear witness to suffering and joy, and to work for peace and justice in our world.” Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Phil Marshall, Worship Associate Jiun-Chyi Yew & Maria Solis, sopranos Dr. Mark Sumner & David Jones, accompanists Asher Davison, song leader Alan Alpert, tenor Carrie Steere-Salazar, welcome Leslie Ottaviano, sound - recording Jonathan Silk, OOS and podcasting 2017-06-121h 09

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoForemothers of FaithForemothers of Faith On Mother’s Day, John will offer a sermon about some of the foremothers of our liberal faith, known and unknown, remembered and forgotten. Lucy Smith will serve as Worship Associate and offer a reflection. The Choir will sing. Reiko will play. And after the service, in the Chapel, there will be an Invitation to Membership for those newcomers who have met with one of the ministers and are ready to sign the membership book of the Society. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Lucy Smith, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ 2017-05-151h 10

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoForemothers of FaithForemothers of Faith On Mother’s Day, John will offer a sermon about some of the foremothers of our liberal faith, known and unknown, remembered and forgotten. Lucy Smith will serve as Worship Associate and offer a reflection. The Choir will sing. Reiko will play. And after the service, in the Chapel, there will be an Invitation to Membership for those newcomers who have met with one of the ministers and are ready to sign the membership book of the Society. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Lucy Smith, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ 2017-05-151h 10

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoTwo Types of ReligionTwo Types of Religion Despite the tremendous diversity in the U.S. religious landscape, there are really only two kinds of religion. Most people practice one or the other, and only one of them leads us to a fuller, deeper, richer experience of life. Our guest preacher is the Regional Lead for the Pacific Western Region of the UUA. The service will make the end of our church school year, with appreciation to all the teachers. Rev. James Kubal-Komoto, Guest Preacher Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rochelle Fortier-Nwadibia, Worship Associate Larry Chinn, piano 2017-05-081h 07

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLiving the Questions - A Celebration of Our Stepping Stones: Rites of Passage ClassLiving the Questions - A Celebration of Our Stepping Stones: Rites of Passage Class Join us this Sunday as we honor and celebrate our ten Rites of Passage students. Under the gifted leadership of the ROP Teaching Team: Alex Darr, Jeff Cookston, Simmy Cover and Chandra Egan, our 3rd and 4th graders spent the year exploring who they are, what they value, and what it means to be part of a religious community. They've been asking lots of questions too - Big Life Questions, which our Ministers will aim to answer during the service. Our church and bell choi...2017-05-011h 13

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLiving the Questions - A Celebration of Our Stepping Stones: Rites of Passage ClassLiving the Questions - A Celebration of Our Stepping Stones: Rites of Passage Class Join us this Sunday as we honor and celebrate our ten Rites of Passage students. Under the gifted leadership of the ROP Teaching Team: Alex Darr, Jeff Cookston, Simmy Cover and Chandra Egan, our 3rd and 4th graders spent the year exploring who they are, what they value, and what it means to be part of a religious community. They've been asking lots of questions too - Big Life Questions, which our Ministers will aim to answer during the service. Our church and bell choi...2017-05-011h 13

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLast Things FirstLast Things First (Earth Day Sunday) On the day following Earth Day, and at the end of a whole month of programming on climate change led by our Environmental Justice Working Group, our Message for All Ages will be a “Blessing of the Bins,” recommitting us all to recycling. Kat Liu, the chair of the working group, will serve as Worship Associate and offer a reflection. Soprano Shannon Warto and pianist and vocalist Lucy Faridany will bring us stunning songs. And John’s sermon will focus on how we think about endings influences how we live in the m...2017-04-251h 22

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLast Things FirstLast Things First (Earth Day Sunday) On the day following Earth Day, and at the end of a whole month of programming on climate change led by our Environmental Justice Working Group, our Message for All Ages will be a “Blessing of the Bins,” recommitting us all to recycling. Kat Liu, the chair of the working group, will serve as Worship Associate and offer a reflection. Soprano Shannon Warto and pianist and vocalist Lucy Faridany will bring us stunning songs. And John’s sermon will focus on how we think about endings influences how we live in the m...2017-04-251h 22

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoHeartwoodHeartwood Our beautiful sanctuary is, among other things, adorned with redwood beams and ceilings, oak plank floors, and carved chancel furniture that goes back to the ministry of Thomas Starr King. John has long felt that under the surface of every liberal church there lies a framework of covenantal heartwood, left to us as a gift and a present guide in challenging times. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Susan Anthony, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Howard Oringer, Welcome Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound, Podcasting 2017-03-271h 15

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoHeartwoodHeartwood Our beautiful sanctuary is, among other things, adorned with redwood beams and ceilings, oak plank floors, and carved chancel furniture that goes back to the ministry of Thomas Starr King. John has long felt that under the surface of every liberal church there lies a framework of covenantal heartwood, left to us as a gift and a present guide in challenging times. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Susan Anthony, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Howard Oringer, Welcome Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound, Podcasting 2017-03-271h 15

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLove, RememberedLove, Remembered Congregations often accumulate layers of love and stories over decades, like layers of sediment below the surface. They may not be visible, but they are the ground on which we stand. The Rev. Diane Miller, who was ordained by this congregation 40 years ago, was Assistant Minister, Interim Senior Minister, and Associate Minister during her five years with the congregation. She was called to other congregations and served as Director of Ministry from 1993–2001, when John Buehrens was UUA President. Diane will be staying with John and Gwen and then going with them to the annual retreat of th...2017-02-271h 07

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLove, RememberedLove, Remembered Congregations often accumulate layers of love and stories over decades, like layers of sediment below the surface. They may not be visible, but they are the ground on which we stand. The Rev. Diane Miller, who was ordained by this congregation 40 years ago, was Assistant Minister, Interim Senior Minister, and Associate Minister during her five years with the congregation. She was called to other congregations and served as Director of Ministry from 1993–2001, when John Buehrens was UUA President. Diane will be staying with John and Gwen and then going with them to the annual retreat of th...2017-02-271h 07

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLoving The FutureLoving The Future Native Americans, as in the Great Law of the Iroquois Confederacy, stressed keeping in mind the well-being of those who will follow us in seven generations. If we loved, rather than feared, the future, perhaps we might be better at doing this. John Buehrens will preach. The service will include the dedication of Iris Floyd, child of Emily Hurstak and Ryan Floyd. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Dennis Adams, Worship Associate K2 Class with Summer Andreasen and Christine Patch-Lindsay, Message for All Ages Reiko Od...2017-02-131h 09

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLoving The FutureLoving The Future Native Americans, as in the Great Law of the Iroquois Confederacy, stressed keeping in mind the well-being of those who will follow us in seven generations. If we loved, rather than feared, the future, perhaps we might be better at doing this. John Buehrens will preach. The service will include the dedication of Iris Floyd, child of Emily Hurstak and Ryan Floyd. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Dennis Adams, Worship Associate K2 Class with Summer Andreasen and Christine Patch-Lindsay, Message for All Ages Reiko Od...2017-02-131h 09

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoDread, Hope, And ExpectationDread, Hope, And Expectation On the Sunday after the presidential inauguration, and our annual UUSF Spaghetti Supper for Social Justice, the Choir will sing, “Take Care of This House,” from the Lerner/ Bernstein musical, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. It includes the line, “but hope isn’t easy to see.” John’s sermon will be based on his own experience, as President of the UUA (1993-2001) of false news, propaganda, and right-wing divisiveness being used against our democratic faith – and how we prevailed then and can again. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Richard Davis, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, orga...2017-01-231h 20

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoDread, Hope, And ExpectationDread, Hope, And Expectation On the Sunday after the presidential inauguration, and our annual UUSF Spaghetti Supper for Social Justice, the Choir will sing, “Take Care of This House,” from the Lerner/ Bernstein musical, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. It includes the line, “but hope isn’t easy to see.” John’s sermon will be based on his own experience, as President of the UUA (1993-2001) of false news, propaganda, and right-wing divisiveness being used against our democratic faith – and how we prevailed then and can again. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Richard Davis, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, orga...2017-01-231h 20

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWonders Still The World Shall WitnessWonders Still The World Shall Witness The world does not lack for wonders, said poet Muriel Rukeyser, only for a sense of wonder. John’s spiritual mentor, Dr. Jacob Trapp, wrote a hymn with the same title as his sermon. In the face of life’s inevitable changes, disappointments, and losses, how do we revive a sense of wonder? His text will come from a question the disciples of John posed to Jesus: Are you the one who is to come, or shall we wait for another? wondering, In what sense must each of us answer that question?2016-12-191h 12

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWonders Still The World Shall WitnessWonders Still The World Shall Witness The world does not lack for wonders, said poet Muriel Rukeyser, only for a sense of wonder. John’s spiritual mentor, Dr. Jacob Trapp, wrote a hymn with the same title as his sermon. In the face of life’s inevitable changes, disappointments, and losses, how do we revive a sense of wonder? His text will come from a question the disciples of John posed to Jesus: Are you the one who is to come, or shall we wait for another? wondering, In what sense must each of us answer that question?2016-12-191h 12

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWinners, Losers, and Reconciliation: An Election Day SermonWinners, Losers, and Reconciliation: An Election Day Sermon Winners hold parties; losers hold meetings. Only finite games divide the winners and losers. From a distance, life is more like an infinite game. The real goal then is to keep the play going. Which requires grace and reconciliation. Drawing on both the tradition of the Election Sermon and ideas of philosopher James Carse, John will try to put Election Day in spiritual perspective. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Phil Marshall, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, Organ Jonah Berquist, We...2016-11-071h 20

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWinners, Losers, and Reconciliation: An Election Day SermonWinners, Losers, and Reconciliation: An Election Day Sermon Winners hold parties; losers hold meetings. Only finite games divide the winners and losers. From a distance, life is more like an infinite game. The real goal then is to keep the play going. Which requires grace and reconciliation. Drawing on both the tradition of the Election Sermon and ideas of philosopher James Carse, John will try to put Election Day in spiritual perspective. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Phil Marshall, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, Organ Jonah Berquist, We...2016-11-071h 20

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoFaith: The VerbFaith: The Verb We welcome to our pulpit the newly-called Co-Minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley. Christian shares the ministry there with his wife, the Rev. Kirstin Schmidt. They are the parents of two boys, ages 4 and 18 months. John Buehren s supervised Christian as an Intern Minister at First Parish in Needham, MA. He was a journalist and UU lay leader in Texas before entering ministry studies. Rev. Christian Schmidt, Guest Minister Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Lucy Smith, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, song leader Bill Klingelhoffer, french horn 2016-09-2653 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoFaith: The VerbFaith: The Verb We welcome to our pulpit the newly-called Co-Minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley. Christian shares the ministry there with his wife, the Rev. Kirstin Schmidt. They are the parents of two boys, ages 4 and 18 months. John Buehren s supervised Christian as an Intern Minister at First Parish in Needham, MA. He was a journalist and UU lay leader in Texas before entering ministry studies. Rev. Christian Schmidt, Guest Minister Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Lucy Smith, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, song leader Bill Klingelhoffer, french horn 2016-09-2653 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCreative GenerativityCreative Generativity “Any damned fool can be a genitor,” some wise man once said. “It takes creative wisdom and maturity to actually be a good father.” Recognizing how few of us may have been blessed to experience really good parenting, this service will seek to lead us all toward more creative forms of generativity – not so much biological as social. This will be Rev. John’s last Sunday in the pulpit until September, as he spends the summer in creative work on UUA leadership, writing a new book, and then celebrating the wedding of his eldest nephew and namesake.2016-06-201h 10

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCreative GenerativityCreative Generativity “Any damned fool can be a genitor,” some wise man once said. “It takes creative wisdom and maturity to actually be a good father.” Recognizing how few of us may have been blessed to experience really good parenting, this service will seek to lead us all toward more creative forms of generativity – not so much biological as social. This will be Rev. John’s last Sunday in the pulpit until September, as he spends the summer in creative work on UUA leadership, writing a new book, and then celebrating the wedding of his eldest nephew and namesake.2016-06-201h 10

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoSelf-Awareness: Coming of AgeSelf-Awareness: Coming of Age This Sunday we celebrate our Coming of Age youth with a special worship service. The worship service is the culmination of a year-long faith exploration program for our youth who are in the 8th and 9th grades. Over the past seven months, the youth have examined their religious identity, gaining self-awareness and deepening their connection to our Unitarian Universalist faith and this church community. They describe their COA experience as a "coming home." They have asked themselves, "What do we believe, and what does it mean to be a UU? How do my values and ou...2016-04-251h 12

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoSelf-Awareness: Coming of AgeSelf-Awareness: Coming of Age This Sunday we celebrate our Coming of Age youth with a special worship service. The worship service is the culmination of a year-long faith exploration program for our youth who are in the 8th and 9th grades. Over the past seven months, the youth have examined their religious identity, gaining self-awareness and deepening their connection to our Unitarian Universalist faith and this church community. They describe their COA experience as a "coming home." They have asked themselves, "What do we believe, and what does it mean to be a UU? How do my values and ou...2016-04-251h 12

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoPracticing ResurrectionPracticing Resurrection In a change from past practice at Easter, the children will join us only for the early part of the service, for a Message for All Ages and for some of the glorious music; then they will go off with Rev. Alyson to other activities, including an Easter egg hunt. John’s message, under a title borrowed from the poet Wendell Berry, will be about carrying the Easter theme into daily and year-round life. Fancy Easter hats, of course, are part of the tradition and fun at UUSF Easter. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Mi...2016-03-281h 18

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoPracticing ResurrectionPracticing Resurrection In a change from past practice at Easter, the children will join us only for the early part of the service, for a Message for All Ages and for some of the glorious music; then they will go off with Rev. Alyson to other activities, including an Easter egg hunt. John’s message, under a title borrowed from the poet Wendell Berry, will be about carrying the Easter theme into daily and year-round life. Fancy Easter hats, of course, are part of the tradition and fun at UUSF Easter. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Mi...2016-03-281h 18

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCracking The MonolithCracking The Monolith Bill Rankin is the author of a 1994 book on social change with the same title as his sermon with the subtitle, “The Struggle for the Soul of America: A Peace and Justice Manifesto.” Bill is a 20-year friend of John and Gwen Buehrens, an Episcopal priest holding a doctorate in social ethics, the former Dean of Episcopal Divinity School, and, with his wife, Sally, was recently honored by Duke University for community service in global health. He is President Emeritus of thegaia.org, The Glob...2016-03-211h 14

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCracking The MonolithCracking The Monolith Bill Rankin is the author of a 1994 book on social change with the same title as his sermon with the subtitle, “The Struggle for the Soul of America: A Peace and Justice Manifesto.” Bill is a 20-year friend of John and Gwen Buehrens, an Episcopal priest holding a doctorate in social ethics, the former Dean of Episcopal Divinity School, and, with his wife, Sally, was recently honored by Duke University for community service in global health. He is President Emeritus of thegaia.org, The Glob...2016-03-211h 14

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoShaping WorthWorship is constantly changing. The root of the word goes back to the Anglo-Saxon “worth -shaep.” The constant purpose being to help give shape to what is of true worth, to shape our inner lives that way. Taking off from an essay on religion in an age of science, John will discuss how rock concerts, intimate groups, and even astronomy offer aspects of what we seek – but not the whole. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Susan Anthony, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, organist Wm. García...2016-03-071h 11

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoShaping WorthWorship is constantly changing. The root of the word goes back to the Anglo-Saxon “worth -shaep.” The constant purpose being to help give shape to what is of true worth, to shape our inner lives that way. Taking off from an essay on religion in an age of science, John will discuss how rock concerts, intimate groups, and even astronomy offer aspects of what we seek – but not the whole. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Susan Anthony, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, organist Wm. García...2016-03-071h 11

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoTransitionsTransitions Major transitions are always done in the face of fear, grief, or anxiety. Young adults Joseph Chapot and Cierdwynn Donaldson will testify to their own experiences of finishing college, becoming engaged, changing gender identity, and dealing with the death of a parent, while Rev. Buehrens leads us in preparing for a spiritually grounded transition into a New Year. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Joseph Chapot, Young Adult Cordinator Cierdwynn Donaldson, Young Adult Reiko Oda Lane, organ Eric Hamilton, guitar Kathleen Q., Moderator Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-12-2959 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoTransitionsTransitions Major transitions are always done in the face of fear, grief, or anxiety. Young adults Joseph Chapot and Cierdwynn Donaldson will testify to their own experiences of finishing college, becoming engaged, changing gender identity, and dealing with the death of a parent, while Rev. Buehrens leads us in preparing for a spiritually grounded transition into a New Year. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Joseph Chapot, Young Adult Cordinator Cierdwynn Donaldson, Young Adult Reiko Oda Lane, organ Eric Hamilton, guitar Kathleen Q., Moderator Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-12-2959 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoA Royal Banquet: In The Face of FearA Royal Banquet: In The Face of Fear The UUSF Choir and the UC Berkeley Alumni/ae Choir combine with an orchestra under the direction of UUSF Music Director Dr. Mark Sumner for a performance of William Walton’s BELSHAZZAR’S FEAST – with brief historical and reflective commentary by Rev. Buehrens on the story from the ancient Book of Daniel. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, Organist Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-12-141h 14

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoA Royal Banquet: In The Face of FearA Royal Banquet: In The Face of Fear The UUSF Choir and the UC Berkeley Alumni/ae Choir combine with an orchestra under the direction of UUSF Music Director Dr. Mark Sumner for a performance of William Walton’s BELSHAZZAR’S FEAST – with brief historical and reflective commentary by Rev. Buehrens on the story from the ancient Book of Daniel. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, Organist Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-12-141h 14

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoNostalgia and ExpectationsNostalgia and Expectations Thanksgiving weekend also brings us the first Sunday of Advent, the season of expectation. John’s sermon will touch on some memories – of his first Thanksgiving as a young husband; of his wife’s ordination 30 years ago this weekend – along with some thoughts about expectations. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Sister Sheila Flynn, O.P., from the Kopanang Community in South Africa Alex Darr, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, Organist Mark Sumner, piano Steve Taylor-Ramírez, guitar and vocals Jim Valent, trustee Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound & Worship A...2015-11-301h 17

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoNostalgia and ExpectationsNostalgia and Expectations Thanksgiving weekend also brings us the first Sunday of Advent, the season of expectation. John’s sermon will touch on some memories – of his first Thanksgiving as a young husband; of his wife’s ordination 30 years ago this weekend – along with some thoughts about expectations. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Sister Sheila Flynn, O.P., from the Kopanang Community in South Africa Alex Darr, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, Organist Mark Sumner, piano Steve Taylor-Ramírez, guitar and vocals Jim Valent, trustee Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound & Worship A...2015-11-301h 17

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCrossing OverCrossing Over On the Sunday before Thanksgiving we celebrate Guest at Your Table Sunday, and dedicate the offering to the work of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee. 75 years ago, in 1940, they began rescuing refugees from totalitarian regimes in Europe. Today they work on many fronts: economic justice; rights in crisis; environmental justice – here and all around the world. Rev. Buehrens is vice-chair of the UUSC Board. Plan to stay for a gala luncheon in celebration of UUSC’s anniversary. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rachel Gore Freed, UUSC VP and Chief Program Officer Ben Bear...2015-11-231h 10

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCrossing OverCrossing Over On the Sunday before Thanksgiving we celebrate Guest at Your Table Sunday, and dedicate the offering to the work of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee. 75 years ago, in 1940, they began rescuing refugees from totalitarian regimes in Europe. Today they work on many fronts: economic justice; rights in crisis; environmental justice – here and all around the world. Rev. Buehrens is vice-chair of the UUSC Board. Plan to stay for a gala luncheon in celebration of UUSC’s anniversary. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rachel Gore Freed, UUSC VP and Chief Program Officer Ben Bear...2015-11-231h 10

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoStarting OverWe mark the Jewish High Holidays with adapted liturgy and appropriate music. The central theme of the Days of Awe is teshuvah, turning and returning. John’s sermon will reflect on the need for a spirituality not of one-time repentance, but rather of continuous self-renewal – which sounds far easier than it often is. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Alison Rittger, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, choir director Reiko Oda Lane, organ Bill Klingelhoffer, shofar Maria Solis, soprano Alexandra Sessler, soprano Judy Payne, Welcome and Announcements 2015-09-211h 01

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoStarting OverWe mark the Jewish High Holidays with adapted liturgy and appropriate music. The central theme of the Days of Awe is teshuvah, turning and returning. John’s sermon will reflect on the need for a spirituality not of one-time repentance, but rather of continuous self-renewal – which sounds far easier than it often is. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Alison Rittger, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, choir director Reiko Oda Lane, organ Bill Klingelhoffer, shofar Maria Solis, soprano Alexandra Sessler, soprano Judy Payne, Welcome and Announcements 2015-09-211h 01

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoSwinging On The ChainsRemembering his own years as a member of the United Mine Workers, John’s sermon will mark Labor Day weekend and discuss the increasing attacks on all forms of unionization. New member Bruce Neuberger, author of Lettuce Wars: Ten Years of Struggle in the Fields of California , will offer a reflection on his years with the United Farm Workers. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Bruce Neuberger, Worshio Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, Song Leader Larry Chinn, jazz piano Reece Hart, Welcome and Announcements Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-09-0855 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoSwinging On The ChainsRemembering his own years as a member of the United Mine Workers, John’s sermon will mark Labor Day weekend and discuss the increasing attacks on all forms of unionization. New member Bruce Neuberger, author of Lettuce Wars: Ten Years of Struggle in the Fields of California , will offer a reflection on his years with the United Farm Workers. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Bruce Neuberger, Worshio Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, Song Leader Larry Chinn, jazz piano Reece Hart, Welcome and Announcements Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-09-0855 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Unitarian VisionOur Unitarian heritage is full of examples of wise and foolish ways to understand our faith. Rev. John Buehrens will draw on his broad experience as a historian and as a leader of our denomination. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Galen Workman, Board Secretary Dr. Mark Sumner, piano Martha Rodriguez Salazar, flute and voice Sarah Bonomo, clarinet Jennifer Peringer, piano Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-08-311h 03

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Unitarian VisionOur Unitarian heritage is full of examples of wise and foolish ways to understand our faith. Rev. John Buehrens will draw on his broad experience as a historian and as a leader of our denomination. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Galen Workman, Board Secretary Dr. Mark Sumner, piano Martha Rodriguez Salazar, flute and voice Sarah Bonomo, clarinet Jennifer Peringer, piano Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-08-311h 03

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoAre We There Yet?This will be Flower Communion Sunday. Bring a flower, if you can, to be exchanged for one brought by someone else.John will tell the story of how the flower communion developed at what was the largest Unitarian church in the world in Prague, between the world wars. He will also tell a story relevant to the central question of his developmental ministry? with us. How will we know when we have arrived? Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister Alex Darr, Worship Associate Dr. Mark...2015-06-151h 11

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoAre We There Yet?This will be Flower Communion Sunday. Bring a flower, if you can, to be exchanged for one brought by someone else.John will tell the story of how the flower communion developed at what was the largest Unitarian church in the world in Prague, between the world wars. He will also tell a story relevant to the central question of his developmental ministry? with us. How will we know when we have arrived? Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister Alex Darr, Worship Associate Dr. Mark...2015-06-151h 11

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoOn Being OtherwiseMany of us feel a bit ?other.? If we are wise, we learn to treat others as we ourselves would like to be treated. Our mothers, if they were wise, told us this. But we often need the reminder. And sometimes our mothers do too! On this Mother?s day Sunday John offers a sermon with a story involving his own mother, and the process of being wisely open to joy again. No matter what. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Sue Anothony, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, choir director Reiko Oda Lane, organ ...2015-05-111h 07

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoOn Being OtherwiseMany of us feel a bit ?other.? If we are wise, we learn to treat others as we ourselves would like to be treated. Our mothers, if they were wise, told us this. But we often need the reminder. And sometimes our mothers do too! On this Mother?s day Sunday John offers a sermon with a story involving his own mother, and the process of being wisely open to joy again. No matter what. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Sue Anothony, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, choir director Reiko Oda Lane, organ ...2015-05-111h 07

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoHow Much Do We Deserve?Our worship theme for April is "wealth and poverty," explored in both the material and spiritual dimensions. Questions of distributive economic justice are ultimately moral and spiritual issues. Join John Buehrens for a powerful sermon which borrows its title from a book on the theme by UU Minister Richard Gilbert. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Ben Bear, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, choir director Reiko Oda Lane, organ Gayle Renolds, Welcome Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-05-041h 08

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoHow Much Do We Deserve?Our worship theme for April is "wealth and poverty," explored in both the material and spiritual dimensions. Questions of distributive economic justice are ultimately moral and spiritual issues. Join John Buehrens for a powerful sermon which borrows its title from a book on the theme by UU Minister Richard Gilbert. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Ben Bear, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, choir director Reiko Oda Lane, organ Gayle Renolds, Welcome Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-05-041h 08

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoRites of Passage: Big QuestionsThis Sunday is our special RITES OF PASSAGE Service! Our 12 ROP graduates, along with their Teaching Team, will join Revs. Buehrens, Benson and Jacks on the Chancel. Our talented group of 3rd-4th graders has spent the year learning about themselves and their church community. They have filled up the pages in their workbooks, interviewed the ministers and other church leaders. They've toured the building, designed a service project, and created symbolic artwork, which will be on display at the service. In addition, they've contemplated some of life's Big Questions. This Sunday the ministers will do their best to answer...2015-04-131h 10

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoRites of Passage: Big QuestionsThis Sunday is our special RITES OF PASSAGE Service! Our 12 ROP graduates, along with their Teaching Team, will join Revs. Buehrens, Benson and Jacks on the Chancel. Our talented group of 3rd-4th graders has spent the year learning about themselves and their church community. They have filled up the pages in their workbooks, interviewed the ministers and other church leaders. They've toured the building, designed a service project, and created symbolic artwork, which will be on display at the service. In addition, they've contemplated some of life's Big Questions. This Sunday the ministers will do their best to answer...2015-04-131h 10

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLessons from SufferingGoing to and from Selma Alabama for the 50th anniversary of the voting rights campaign there, John Buehrens was reading Racing to Justice: Transforming Our Conceptions of Self and Other to Build an Inclusive Society, by UC Berkeley professor john a. powell, who spoke at a dinner here on Feb. 28. In his final chapter, from which this sermon takes its title, Powell writes, "If spirituality is engagement with the deeper sense of self, the divine, or God, narrow engagement with the egoistic self is the lack of spirituality. The suffering that is caused by separation cannot be healed by this...2015-03-231h 12

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLessons from SufferingGoing to and from Selma Alabama for the 50th anniversary of the voting rights campaign there, John Buehrens was reading Racing to Justice: Transforming Our Conceptions of Self and Other to Build an Inclusive Society, by UC Berkeley professor john a. powell, who spoke at a dinner here on Feb. 28. In his final chapter, from which this sermon takes its title, Powell writes, "If spirituality is engagement with the deeper sense of self, the divine, or God, narrow engagement with the egoistic self is the lack of spirituality. The suffering that is caused by separation cannot be healed by this...2015-03-231h 12

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoAlienation and ReconciliationMost of us are alienated from someone. Often for quite good reason. How do we achieve anything like reconciliation? John will draw on his experience in family systems work to offer some insights on the age-old issue of forgiveness. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Rev. JD Benson, Associate Minister Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister Milo Hanke, Jr, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organist Wm. García Ganz, guest choir director Morgen Warner, soprano Kate Offer, soprano Kate Offer, song leader Dolores Perez Priem, Transition Team/Welcome Jonathan Silk, Sound, O...2015-01-121h 05

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoAlienation and ReconciliationMost of us are alienated from someone. Often for quite good reason. How do we achieve anything like reconciliation? John will draw on his experience in family systems work to offer some insights on the age-old issue of forgiveness. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Rev. JD Benson, Associate Minister Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister Milo Hanke, Jr, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organist Wm. García Ganz, guest choir director Morgen Warner, soprano Kate Offer, soprano Kate Offer, song leader Dolores Perez Priem, Transition Team/Welcome Jonathan Silk, Sound, O...2015-01-121h 05

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoReconciliation and DedicationAs we begin the New Year, our service begins with a baby blessing - dedicating the grandchild of our beloved organist, Reiko Oda Lane. Her name: "Aria." In traditional churches, a theme raised at the New Year is how Jesus was named, brought to the Temple, adored by Magi, and then, as an adult, baptized. But why? John will tell a story about a visit to Israel that suggested an answer. Assistant Minister Rev. JD Benson will join John on the Chancel. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister 2015-01-061h 09

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoReconciliation and DedicationAs we begin the New Year, our service begins with a baby blessing - dedicating the grandchild of our beloved organist, Reiko Oda Lane. Her name: "Aria." In traditional churches, a theme raised at the New Year is how Jesus was named, brought to the Temple, adored by Magi, and then, as an adult, baptized. But why? John will tell a story about a visit to Israel that suggested an answer. Assistant Minister Rev. JD Benson will join John on the Chancel. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Rev. JD Benson, Assistant Minister Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister 2015-01-061h 09

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoTransformationsAlex Darr, who grew up in UUSF, will serve as Worship Associate and Kristen Pedersen will work with Rev. Buehrens to create a service that will include the voices of young adults testifying to how UU values were part of their transformations and personal growth. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Alex Darr, Worship Associate Kristen Pedersen, Young Adult Mark Johnson, piano Kate Offer, song leader Margaret Pearce, Welcome Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-01-0656 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoTransformationsAlex Darr, who grew up in UUSF, will serve as Worship Associate and Kristen Pedersen will work with Rev. Buehrens to create a service that will include the voices of young adults testifying to how UU values were part of their transformations and personal growth. Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Alex Darr, Worship Associate Kristen Pedersen, Young Adult Mark Johnson, piano Kate Offer, song leader Margaret Pearce, Welcome Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2015-01-0656 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Meaning of LifeWe welcome the Minister Emerita of First Unitarian in Portland, OR, where she built up one of the largest, most influential churches in the UUA and in the state, often preaching to 1000 people. She will do a reading from her latest book in the Fireside Room at 9:30 AM. The 11AM service will include a reflection by Worship Associate Ben Bear, a ceremony recognizing our many new members conducted by Rev. Buehrens. The Rev. Dr. Marilyn Sewell, Guest Preacher Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister Ben Bear, Worship Associate George Cavage...2014-12-081h 10

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Meaning of LifeWe welcome the Minister Emerita of First Unitarian in Portland, OR, where she built up one of the largest, most influential churches in the UUA and in the state, often preaching to 1000 people. She will do a reading from her latest book in the Fireside Room at 9:30 AM. The 11AM service will include a reflection by Worship Associate Ben Bear, a ceremony recognizing our many new members conducted by Rev. Buehrens. The Rev. Dr. Marilyn Sewell, Guest Preacher Rev. John Buehrens,Senior Minister Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister Ben Bear, Worship Associate George Cavage...2014-12-081h 10

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoBuilding The Beloved Community – With LoveOn this UN Sunday, we welcome the Executive Director of the UU Office at the United Nations. Bruce Knotts is a retired US diplomat who has become a leader among NGOs at the UN on climate change, LGBT rights, and refugee issues. John Buehrens will conduct the service with Bruce. Bruce Knotts, Guest Preacher Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Kate Offer, Song Leader Dr. Mark Sumner, Choir Director & Piano Reiko Oda Lane, Organist & Bell Choir Director Galen Workman, Welcome Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2014-10-211h 02

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoBuilding The Beloved Community – With LoveOn this UN Sunday, we welcome the Executive Director of the UU Office at the United Nations. Bruce Knotts is a retired US diplomat who has become a leader among NGOs at the UN on climate change, LGBT rights, and refugee issues. John Buehrens will conduct the service with Bruce. Bruce Knotts, Guest Preacher Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Kate Offer, Song Leader Dr. Mark Sumner, Choir Director & Piano Reiko Oda Lane, Organist & Bell Choir Director Galen Workman, Welcome Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship Archives/Podcast 2014-10-211h 02

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Problem of PatienceJohn sometimes jokes that he keeps getting called back into ministry because God knows he still needs to learn patience! But the actress Meryl Streep recently wrote that experience taught her there are some things with which it's fine to have no patience at all. Ah, the wisdom to know the difference! On this St. Francis Day, we hold a Blessing of Animals in the Chapel. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister Alison Rittger, Worship Associate Kate Offer, Song Leader Mark Johnson, Piano Thomas Yee, Violin Trudy Lionel, Welcome 2014-10-131h 02

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Problem of PatienceJohn sometimes jokes that he keeps getting called back into ministry because God knows he still needs to learn patience! But the actress Meryl Streep recently wrote that experience taught her there are some things with which it's fine to have no patience at all. Ah, the wisdom to know the difference! On this St. Francis Day, we hold a Blessing of Animals in the Chapel. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Cindy Pincus, Intern Minister Alison Rittger, Worship Associate Kate Offer, Song Leader Mark Johnson, Piano Thomas Yee, Violin Trudy Lionel, Welcome 2014-10-131h 02

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCelebration of New Ministry: A New AnointingOur children, youth, and teachers will process in following their welcome back breakfast. Minister Emerita Kay Jorgensen will invest John with an official cap from the Faithful Fools Street Ministry. Margot Campbell Gross will again lead us in meditation and prayer. And our preacher will be the new President of Starr King School for the Ministry. Don't miss this Sunday! Invite your friends. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt, Guest Minister Rev. Margot Campbell Gross, Minister Emerita Rev. Kay Jorgensen, Minister Emerita Rev. Alyson Jacks, Minister of Family Life Regina...2014-09-081h 03

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoCelebration of New Ministry: A New AnointingOur children, youth, and teachers will process in following their welcome back breakfast. Minister Emerita Kay Jorgensen will invest John with an official cap from the Faithful Fools Street Ministry. Margot Campbell Gross will again lead us in meditation and prayer. And our preacher will be the new President of Starr King School for the Ministry. Don't miss this Sunday! Invite your friends. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt, Guest Minister Rev. Margot Campbell Gross, Minister Emerita Rev. Kay Jorgensen, Minister Emerita Rev. Alyson Jacks, Minister of Family Life Regina...2014-09-081h 03

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoConnections"Only connect!" said the novelist E.M. Forster. But "connections are made slowly," warned poet Marge Piercy, "sometimes they grow underground." John Buehrens will preach, but the service will also include a chance to learn how to connect at UUSF to other spiritual seekers and skeptics through Small Group Ministry. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Margot Campbell Gross, Minister Emerita Judith Stoddard, Small Group Ministry Coordinator Derek Czajka Sandra Niman Larry Chinn, Guest Pianist Dr. Mark Sumner, Pianist Kerry Parker, Song Leader Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship...2014-09-011h 05

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoConnections"Only connect!" said the novelist E.M. Forster. But "connections are made slowly," warned poet Marge Piercy, "sometimes they grow underground." John Buehrens will preach, but the service will also include a chance to learn how to connect at UUSF to other spiritual seekers and skeptics through Small Group Ministry. Rev. John Buehrens, Senior Minister Rev. Margot Campbell Gross, Minister Emerita Judith Stoddard, Small Group Ministry Coordinator Derek Czajka Sandra Niman Larry Chinn, Guest Pianist Dr. Mark Sumner, Pianist Kerry Parker, Song Leader Jonathan Silk, Sound, Order of Service & Worship...2014-09-011h 05 $Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation\'s Podcast$ Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation's PodcastDeliver Us From EvilSermon delivered by Rev. John Bueherns on Febrary 27, 2011. John Buehrens served as President of the Unitarian Universalist Association from 1993 to 2001. He is the author of Understanding the Bible: An Introduction for Skeptics, Seekers, and Religious Liberals; and co-author (with Forrest Church) of A Chosen Faith: An Introduction to Unitarian Universalism and (with Rebecca Parker) of A House for Hope: The Promise of Progressive Religion in the 21st Century. His latest book, Universalists and Unitarians in America: A People's History, will be published in April. Minister of First Parish in Needham, Massachusetts, since 2002, he is a member of the adjunct...2011-02-2720 min